If you want safer, smoother towing and less stress on the road, installing a weight distribution hitch is essential. By sending the trailer’s weight evenly across the axles of both your tow vehicle and trailer, this setup helps you avoid dangerous sway and poor handling. You’ll notice better stability, improved braking, and easier steering every time you tow.
Before you grab your tools, learn about the parts of your hitch. Knowing how components like the hitch head, frame brackets, and spring bars work together will make your installation much easier. The ProPride 3P® Hitch uses patented Pivot Point Projection™ technology for advanced trailer sway control.
Follow this straightforward guide to improve your towing safety and confidence. ProPride gives every RV owner a secure, fifth wheel-like experience without complicated add-ons.
Understanding Weight Distribution Hitches
A weight distribution hitch spreads the trailer’s weight to both your tow vehicle and trailer axles. This setup brings better stability, easier handling, and greater towing safety. Each part of the system works together to help keep your trailer steady and your drive smooth.
How Weight Distribution Hitches Work
A weight distribution hitch uses spring bars and leverage to shift how weight is carried. When you attach a loaded trailer to your vehicle’s rear hitch, the back of your vehicle can sag and the front can lift up.
This uneven weight makes steering harder, reduces braking control, and increases the risk of trailer sway. Spring bars connected between the trailer frame and hitch head act like a lever. They push down on the front axle of your tow vehicle and spread some weight to the trailer’s own axles.
Advanced anti-sway hitches, like the ProPride 3P® Hitch, use patented Pivot Point Projection™ technology to create a virtual pivot point. This gives you fifth wheel-like control, so the trailer stays in line without fighting sway from wind or passing trucks.
Different Types of Weight Distribution Hitches
There are two main styles: trunnion bar and round bar hitches. Both use spring bars to share the weight but differ in design and how they connect.
- Trunnion Bar: Square bars that slide directly into the hitch head, giving more ground clearance. They’re great for bigger trailers and heavier loads.
- Round Bar: Round bars that attach to the bottom of the hitch head with clips or pins. They generally sit lower and reduce ground clearance but work well for lighter towing.
Some hitches add sway control with friction pads or add-on bars. Hitches built for true trailer sway control—like the Jim Hensley-designed ProPride 3P®—eliminate sway by design. They use a one-piece yoke, frame brackets, and adjustable offset hitch bars for stable, stress-free towing without complicated adjustments.
Benefits of Proper Weight Distribution
A weight distribution system reduces trailer sway and provides a more stable ride.
Proper weight distribution also improves steering and braking response, making your drive safer. You’ll see less wear on your rear tires, suspension, and hitch since the load is shared more evenly.
A premium anti-sway hitch gives you confidence that wind gusts or sharp turns won’t send your trailer swinging. Your towing setup will feel more like a fifth wheel, with steady tracking and less stress on your tow vehicle.
Preparation Before Installation
A safe and smooth towing experience starts with careful preparation. Use the right tools, check your vehicle and trailer compatibility, and follow safety rules to avoid problems during installation.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and parts. For most weight distribution hitches, you’ll need:
- Torque wrench (for tightening bolts to exact specs)
- Socket set and ratchet
- Tape measure
- Level (bubble or digital)
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Lubricant (for moving parts)
- Chalk or marking pencil
If you’re installing a ProPride 3P® Hitch, also have the included hardware bag, control links, hitch head, adjustable offset hitch bar, and frame brackets ready. Keep the hitch instructions on hand for reference. Set up in a well-lit, flat, and open area to make the install easier and safer.
Checking Vehicle and Trailer Compatibility
Not every hitch fits every trailer setup. Check your tow vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and your trailer’s tongue weight. Make sure the combined tongue weight fits within the hitch’s rated capacity. You can find these numbers in your user manuals or on data stickers near the driver’s door and trailer frame.
Measure the height of your tow vehicle’s hitch receiver and the trailer’s coupler while both sit on level ground. Both heights should be close, so the trailer sits level when hitched. Double-check your receiver size (2", 2.5", or 3") and the hitch bar’s style and offset for fit. The ProPride 3P® Hitch comes with an adjustable offset hitch bar to match different combinations.
Safety Considerations
Safe installation protects you, your vehicle, and others on the road. Use jack stands or wheel chocks to secure the trailer and tow vehicle from unexpected movement. Wear eye and hand protection when handling tools, tightening bolts, or working under the trailer frame.
Keep bystanders and pets at a safe distance. Read all instructions before starting, and work carefully with heavy equipment. Double-check each step as you go—errors during installation can lead to trailer sway, poor handling, or dangerous detachments. If you are unsure about any step, contact ProPride support or a certified RV technician.
Mounting the Weight Distribution Hitch
Mounting your hitch correctly ensures balanced towing and reduces the risk of sway. You’ll need careful measurements, simple tools, and attention to detail while following these steps.
Attaching the Head Assembly
Slide the head assembly onto the weight distribution shank. Position your shank at the proper height for your tow vehicle’s receiver. Most shanks are adjustable, so use the included holes and pins.
Secure the head assembly with the provided bolts and washers. Tighten these by hand at first. Use a torque wrench for the final tightening, following the manufacturer’s recommended settings.
Check if the hitch head is level. Place a small level on top of the head and adjust as needed.
Securing the Shank and Hitch Ball
Insert the shank into your vehicle’s receiver tube. Align the holes for the hitch pin and slide it through, securing it with a locking clip. Make sure the connection is tight to prevent movement or rattling.
Attach the hitch ball to the head assembly if not already installed. Use a wrench to tighten the nut below the head. The ball should point straight forward and not wobble. Torque it to the required specification, usually written on the ball’s packaging or manual.
Double-check every bolt and pin. Any loose component can lead to uneven towing or a hitch failure on the road.
Positioning the Hitch Coupler
Back up your tow vehicle until the hitch ball sits directly under the trailer’s coupler. Lower the coupler onto the ball and make sure it fits snugly. Lock the coupler latch and insert a safety pin through the latch hole.
Look at the assembly from the side. Your trailer should be as level as possible from front to back. If the front end looks high or low, adjust the hitch height or shank.
Connect your safety chains in a crisscross pattern under the hitch and plug in the trailer wiring. With everything set, you’ve now mounted your anti-sway hitch and are ready for the next steps with your ProPride system.
Installing Spring Bars and Chains
Spring bars and chains are critical parts of your weight distribution hitch system. They help transfer weight, provide stability, and improve your towing safety when installed and adjusted correctly.
Connecting the Spring Bars
Slide the spring bars into the hitch head’s sockets until they click or lock firmly in position. Most systems use a push-and-lock mechanism, but always check that each bar is fully seated and cannot be easily pulled out.
Align the spring bars so they point straight back toward the trailer’s frame brackets. These bars should stay parallel to the trailer frame as much as possible before tension is applied. If your system uses a one-piece yoke, like the ProPride 3P® hitch, proper alignment is even more important for sway control.
Attach the chain or control link to the end of each spring bar and make sure both are secure.
Adjusting Chain Links Properly
Set the chain onto the frame bracket or hook, choosing a starting link based on manufacturer instructions. For many hitches, 5 or 6 links showing below the bracket gives a good baseline, but adjust as needed for your setup.
Raise the trailer tongue using the jack to take pressure off before snapping the chain into place. This step protects you from injury and makes it easier to connect the chains.
Once connected, lower the jack and check the tow vehicle’s front and rear wheel heights. If the vehicle’s rear sits lower than the front, reduce the number of links on the chain. If the ride height is balanced, you’ve distributed the weight correctly.
A properly adjusted chain lets the spring bars sit parallel to the trailer frame. It should not drag on the ground or be so tight that lifting the chain requires excessive force.
Locking Safety Pins in Place
After setting the tension, slide a safety pin or clip into each spring bar chain hook or bracket to prevent accidental release. Verify that every pin is secure and cannot fall out while driving.
Double-check that both spring bars remain locked into the hitch head. Some systems include secondary locking pins here—set these fully in place. Properly securing these safety components prevents sudden loss of sway control or damage during travel.
Before you hit the road, take a final walk around your setup. Make sure all chains, pins, and clips are tight and positioned as needed. With these steps, your anti-sway hitch, like a ProPride system, will provide maximum trailer sway control and a worry-free towing experience.
Setting Up Sway Control Devices
Trailer sway is a leading cause of towing problems, but you can take control by setting up the right sway control devices on your weight distribution hitch. Proper installation and adjustment ensure steady tracking and prevent dangerous fishtailing as you drive.
Types of Sway Control Systems
There are two main kinds of sway control: friction-based systems and advanced engineering solutions. Friction sway control uses clamp-on bars or pads to create resistance when the trailer tries to sway. This approach is common but adds wear and can be inconsistent, especially in wet conditions.
An advanced anti-sway hitch, such as the ProPride 3P®, uses patented Pivot Point Projection™ to remove trailer sway by controlling the trailer’s virtual pivot point. This method does not rely on friction or risky add-ons. Instead, it creates a fifth-wheel-like connection, dramatically increasing towing stability—even in wind, while passing trucks, or during emergency maneuvers.
Friction systems need periodic adjustment and can be affected by weather or road grime. Engineering-based anti-sway hitches don’t require this ongoing maintenance, offering more consistent performance over time.
Attaching Sway Control Arms
With friction-based hitches, attach the sway control bar between the trailer frame and a ball mounted on the hitch head. Ensure both the tow vehicle and trailer are level. Attach the sway control ball plate, then secure the sway control arm with pins or bolts.
For anti-sway hitches like the ProPride 3P®, use a one-piece yoke and frame brackets. These connect directly to the trailer frame without extra drilling or tools. Fasten the control links securely to the hitch head and box, ensuring the virtual pivot point stays centered and aligned. Always check for proper clearance between the control arms and frame.
Tighten all bolts with a torque wrench to avoid loosening during travel. Follow the included diagram or owner’s manual from ProPride to confirm each arm is installed in the correct position for best performance.
Adjusting Sway Control Settings
On friction-style systems, use the tightening handle to increase or decrease resistance. Too tight can cause jerky steering; too loose allows sway. Take short test drives and tweak the handle until you find the best compromise for your trailer size and road conditions.
Engineering-based hitches usually have fewer user adjustments once installed. With ProPride 3P®, the design handles most sway control. Instead, set spring bars and control links to the recommended positions for correct weight distribution. Use the adjustable offset hitch bar if your trailer sits high or low.
If you switch between light and heavy loads, recheck your setup before each trip. Look for level alignment of the trailer and tow vehicle, and verify equal tension on your spring bars. Take a few minutes to double-check settings to prevent sway and keep your trip safe.
Final Adjustments and Inspection
Careful setup at this stage ensures stability, safety, and towing performance.
Leveling the Trailer and Tow Vehicle
Start by checking the height of your trailer and tow vehicle before and after hitching. Use a tape measure and record the ground-to-fender height at the front and rear of your tow vehicle, and at the trailer’s tongue and axle.
After installing the hitch, both the tow vehicle and trailer should sit as level as possible. A level setup means the weight is evenly shared across all axles, reducing strain and improving handling. If the front of your tow vehicle is much higher or lower than the rear, adjust the spring bars or the hitch head angle.
The ProPride 3P® Hitch, with its adjustable offset hitch bar and simple frame bracket system, can make this process faster. Make small adjustments until both the tow vehicle and trailer heights are close to the original, unhitched measurements.
Tightening Bolts and Fasteners
Once your setup is level, check each bolt and fastener with a torque wrench. Reference your hitch’s owner manual for specific torque values—over-tightening can cause damage, while under-tightening risks parts coming loose.
Key areas to check:
- Hitch head bolts
- Frame bracket bolts
- Spring bar mounts
- Shank and hitch pin securing the hitch box
Tighten each fastener in the recommended sequence, usually moving from the most central to the outermost bolts. Recheck all connections after towing a short distance, as bolts may settle during initial use.
Double-check every fastener, especially if you’re towing heavy loads or using anti-sway hitches like those with Pivot Point Projection™ technology.
Performing a Safety Check
Do a thorough safety check before hitting the road. Walk around your setup and visually inspect every connection. Make sure the hitch pin is secured, safety chains are crossed and attached, and electrical connections for trailer lights and brakes are plugged in properly.
Check that the spring bars are locked in place and working as intended. For hitches with sway-control features, test for excess play by gently rocking the trailer side-to-side.
Verify your load does not exceed your vehicle’s or hitch’s rated limits. Review your brake controller operation and ensure your mirrors give a clear view along the entire trailer. These steps help ensure a stable and controlled towing experience.
Maintaining Your Weight Distribution Hitch
Regular upkeep keeps your hitch working safely and smoothly. Clean, check for worn parts, and store your hitch carefully to protect your investment and make every trip safer.
Routine Cleaning and Lubrication
Road dust, salt, and debris collect on your weight distribution hitch, especially on moving joints and contact points. After each trip, wipe down the hitch with a damp cloth to remove grime. Focus on the hitch head, spring bars, and the area where the bars pivot.
Apply a thin layer of grease or high-quality lubricant to the hitch box, control links, and other pivot points to reduce friction and wear. The ProPride 3P® Hitch uses a one-piece yoke and top-mounted jacks for fewer trouble spots, but lubrication remains important. Use only a small amount of grease to avoid attracting dirt.
Check for rust during every cleaning. If you see any, remove it with a wire brush and apply a rust-resistant coating. If the hitch is exposed to rain or salty roads, rinse with fresh water and dry before lubrication.
Monitoring Wear and Tear
Inspect the frame brackets, hitch head, spring bars, and locking pins before every trip. Look for cracks, bent parts, or loose bolts, especially where the hitch connects to your tow vehicle.
Check the control links, frame brackets, and adjustable components for damage or excessive play. For hitches like the ProPride 3P® that use a virtual pivot point system, inspect the Pivot Point Projection™ mechanism for smooth motion and proper alignment.
Use this table as a quick checklist:
|
Part |
Check For |
Action Needed |
|
Hitch Head |
Cracks, bends |
Replace if damaged |
|
Spring Bars |
Rust, wear |
Grease or replace |
|
Control Links |
Free movement |
Lubricate or adjust |
|
Bolts, Pins |
Tightness |
Torque as needed |
Replace any damaged parts right away. Never tow with questionable hardware.
Storing Your Hitch Properly
Store your hitch in a clean, dry place when not in use. Remove it from your vehicle and avoid leaving it outside, as moisture can cause rust and corrosion.
If you store your hitch in a garage or shed, place it off the ground on a sturdy shelf or rack. Cover exposed metal parts with a soft cloth or use a protective case. Before seasonal storage, wipe down all components and apply a light coat of lubricant to all moving parts.
Keep all bolts, pins, and hardware together in a labeled container. This prevents losing small pieces and makes reinstallation faster next time. These steps maximize your hitch’s lifespan and maintain effective trailer sway control.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A weight distribution hitch stabilizes your trailer and tow vehicle, but avoid these errors for maximum safety and comfort.
- Skipping the Vehicle and Trailer Weight Check
Always confirm your gross trailer and tow vehicle weights before installing. If you skip this step, your hitch setup may not provide enough towing stability or sway control. Double-check the specs to match your system.
- Incorrect Hitch Head Angle
Setting the wrong hitch head angle harms weight distribution. Adjust the hitch head using the bolts so the trailer sits level with your vehicle. A level connection stops sagging and keeps steering precise.
- Loose or Overtightened Fasteners
Improper torque on bolts for the hitch head, spring bars, or frame brackets can lead to dangerous trips. Use a torque wrench and follow manufacturer guidelines.
- Misaligned Spring Bars
Keep the spring bars parallel to the frame. Misalignment affects weight transfer and can cause trailer sway.
- Ignoring Regular Inspections
Check all connections and frame brackets before each trip. Worn parts or ignored issues can reduce the life of your system.
Quick List: Common Issues to Double Check
- Wrong hitch height
- Missing safety pins
- Incorrect chain tension
- Failing to readjust after loading your trailer
- Using friction hitches instead of advanced sway control (like Pivot Point Projection™)
Choosing ProPride helps you avoid these problems and focus on safer, smoother towing.
When to Seek Professional Help
Many DIYers can install a weight distribution hitch, but sometimes expert support makes a real difference.
If your trailer still sways, your ride feels rough, or your tow vehicle isn’t level after setup, get help. These signs could mean your weight distribution system isn't adjusted correctly.
Other situations where professional help is important:
- Unusual noises or stress on hitch parts
- Difficulty understanding manufacturer instructions
- Uneven tire wear or unusual handling
- Repeated issues even after several adjustments
Safety Tip:
If you’re not confident about your setup, do not risk your trip.
ProPride 3P® Hitch owners:
Because this system uses advanced sway control and unique Pivot Point Projection™ technology, a technician with specific experience is best for troubleshooting advanced adjustments.
Double-check your measurements and torque settings. If the installation guide seems unclear, call a professional—especially before a long journey or if towing a heavy load.
These steps help you avoid costly repairs and keep your towing experience safe and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Towing safety depends on using the right hitch, setting it up correctly, and making sure it matches your trailer and tow vehicle. Adjust and maintain your weight distribution hitch to protect against trailer sway and avoid common towing troubles.
What are the steps to setting up a weight distribution hitch?
Park your tow vehicle and trailer on level ground. Measure the heights of the trailer coupler and the tow vehicle’s hitch receiver while unconnected. This helps you adjust the hitch to keep the trailer level.
Attach the hitch head to the shank, insert it into your receiver, and secure it with the proper bolts. Tighten bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specs.
Attach the trailer to the hitch head. Adjust the head angle if the trailer is not level. Install the spring bars and connect chains or brackets to spread weight between the axles.
Double-check that all bolts are tight, all connections are secure, and the setup sits evenly. Refer to your hitch manual for exact instructions.
Where can I find professional installation for a weight distribution hitch?
Look for professional installation services at RV service centers or shops that specialize in trailer hitches. Some local auto repair shops with towing experience may offer this service.
Ask if they have experience with weight distribution hitches. For advanced systems like the ProPride 3P® Hitch, check if the shop is familiar with these models.
How do you properly adjust a CURT weight distribution hitch?
Park on level ground and connect the trailer, but leave the spring bars off at first. Measure the height of the tow vehicle's front and rear wheel wells. Once the hitch is installed, add the spring bars and adjust so the vehicle returns as close as possible to its original height.
Set the chains or brackets so the spring bars are nearly parallel to the trailer frame. Re-check all bolts and connections for tightness before towing. Test drive slowly and check for sway or unevenness before hitting the road.
Can a weight distribution hitch be used with air bag suspension systems?
You can use a weight distribution hitch with air bag suspension systems, but you need to adjust both systems correctly. Inflate air bags to standard ride height before setting your hitch.
After you have the correct ride height with air bags, install and adjust the weight distribution hitch as usual. Do not overinflate air bags after installing the hitch, as this could reduce the effectiveness of weight distribution.
What should I consider when choosing a weight distribution hitch with sway control?
Look for designs with advanced sway control methods, not just friction pads. Hitches like the ProPride 3P® Hitch eliminate sway using Pivot Point Projection™ instead of older friction systems. Make sure the hitch supports your trailer’s weight and tongue weight range.
Consider design features, such as a one-piece yoke and frame brackets, for extra stability. Avoid hitches that need constant adjustment or lose effectiveness if greased or wet.
Are there any downsides to using a weight distribution hitch on a trailer?
Some hitches add extra weight and take more time to set up than basic ball mounts. In tight parking lots or steep driveways, a hitch may sometimes limit maneuverability. If you do not set it up correctly, parts can wear out faster or the hitch can put too much strain on your trailer frame.
Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and inspect your system regularly to catch problems early.
